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Barred mayor runs as independent

In a press release posted on his blog, Mr Delle Donne said his main campaign questions the intentions of the Liberal Party in suspending council.

‘I have decided to stand for the seat of Riverton as I, along with many other concerned citizens, oppose the arrogant Barnett Government’s decision to remove the democratically-elected council for political gain, in the hope of re-electing the current Liberal member,’ the release stated.

‘This is clearly evident in the constant public attack on the decisions of council over issues in the Riverton electorate.’

Speaking to the Times, Mr Delle Donne said the attacks regarded the Willetton Childcare Centre, Willetton Sports Club, Willeri Drive and Riley Road networks and the Caltex Service Station on High Road.

Mr Delle Donne said he had not decided which way he would direct voting preferences. Riverton MLA Mike Nahan would not comment on Mr Delle Donne’s move.

Local Government Minister John Castrilli suspended the Mayor and Canning council in November after a Department of Local Government inquiry found serious and ongoing failings by the council.

It also recommended Mr Delle Donne be referred to the Department’s chief executive for a serious breach of the Local Government Administration Regulations.

A further investigation into council operations will start in April. A Department of Local Government spokeswoman said if Mr Delle Donne won the seat, he would have to resign immediately from council ” as required by the Local Government Act.

The seat of Riverton is being contested by sitting member Dr Nahan, Labor candidate Hannah Beazley, Greens candidate Marcus Atkinson and Mr Delle Donne. At the last election, Dr Nahan registered 9708 votes to win the seat from Labor’s Tony McRae who registered 9644.